1998 Toyota Corolla vs. 2001 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2001 Toyota MR2 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Toyota MR2 (140 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1998 Toyota Corolla. (85 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1998 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 450 kg more than 1998 Toyota Corolla. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Toyota MR2 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2001 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Toyota Corolla, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2001 Toyota MR2 (170 Nm) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Toyota Corolla. (120 Nm). This means 2001 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Toyota Corolla | 2001 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Toyota | Toyota |
| Model | Corolla | MR2 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2470 mm |
